5 Tips for Responding to a Lowball Offer (2024)

FAQs

How do I reply to a lowball offer? ›

If faced with a low offer, respond honestly yet respectfully. Mention any higher offers or opportunities you have, stating they're a certain percentage above the current offer. While expressing your interest in the company, clarify your stance on the financial aspect.

You are in a strong position in that you don't need this job, so don't be shy about asking for what you think you're worth. They've made an offer, so negotiating isn't going to get them to revoke. So you just go back and counter with what you actually want.

I am writing to thank you for offering me the position of [job title] at [company]. I enjoyed our interview and was pleased to hear back from you, and I'm excited to see where this new position leads. I have reviewed the terms of employment as set out in the contract and am happy to accept!

The low-balling technique involves making an attractive initial offer that a buyer will agree to, then raising the price slightly before a final purchase is made. The buyer's sense of commitment and self-presentation often leads them to still purchase the product.

This is basically when a company offers you a salary at the very bottom of your desired pay range (or sometimes even lower). Some say this is done to open up the opportunity for negotiation, but I personally think it's done in the hopes that a candidate will simply take the job for the lowest pay possible.

With Highball/lowball the other party will start the negotiation with a ridiculously high (or ridiculously low) offer, to try to force you to radically drop your resistance points and goals. If you haven't prepared properly, or you aren't aware of what is happening, you may be tempted to fall for it. DON'T!

How do you decline an offer that is too low? ›

I sincerely appreciate the offer and your interest in hiring me. After careful consideration, I will have to decline this role/job offer as the salary is too far outside my expectations to leave my current position. Again, I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to interview and the offer.

Feel free to adjust it to your liking: “Thank you so much for the offer. I'm really excited about the company and the role. I want to be upfront with you that the salary is lower than I was expecting based on my skills and experience.

Ask, don't offer.

Keep in mind that choosing not to answer an unreasonable offer is an implied rejection. Talking about relevant facts, principles, and interests will expose the offer's flaws and often lead to progress.

Acknowledge it's a low ball offer

One approach is to simply say that you're willing to negotiate, but that you need to hear a serious starting offer. Another is to counter-offer with a price that's slightly lower than your asking price – even just $1,000 below it.

Lowball offers may be a smart move for those with pressing financial obligations, such as debt repayment, medical bills, or supporting dependents. By accepting a lower offer, one can diminish the financial stress and ensure their immediate needs are met while they continue to search for better opportunities.

What to Say: “I really appreciate that, and benefits are an important part of the package. But I would be more comfortable if we could find a way to meet in the middle about the salary. Is there any way to find flexibility in that number, given my experience level and strong credentials?”

Be polite with your response to the rejection. Ask for time to think about it even if you know you will take the job. Consider negotiating for benefits like additional paid time off or flexible hours if the salary is non-negotiable.

I'm really excited about the company and the role. I want to be upfront with you that the salary is lower than I was expecting based on my skills and experience. I'd like to be at a number more like $X. I'm really interested in this opportunity and would love to make this work with you.”

How do you respond to a high counter offer? ›

Keep your message concise, clear, and respectful. Briefly explain that you have carefully considered the offer but have decided to pursue other opportunities that better align with your career goals and compensation expectations. Maintain a positive tone by expressing your willingness to stay connected.

Always Respond With A Counter Offer

There are many reasons why you may receive a low ball offer on your home. Whether it's because the buyer feels your home is overpriced or because they believe that no purchase offers should ever be close to the asking price, always respond with a counter offer.